The Men's R1 Full-Zip Jacket by Patagonia is made with Regulator grid fleece, the R1 Full-Zip Jacket is lightweight, warm, compressible, highly breathable and moisture-wicking - an optimal midlayer for high-output activities in cold mountain environments.

It stretches, breathes, wicks and warms - no wonder so many serious trail and mountain athletes use and abuse Patagonia's R1 styles. And the full-zip front makes it even more versatile, from a midlayer in winter to a lightweight jacket on early fall mornings and alpine summer evenings. Plus, the fabric has never been better: We worked with Polartec to fine-tune the high/low interior grid polyester (Polartec Power Dry) into an exclusive that's more breathable and compressible and has an improved feel and durability, while still maintaining its warmth. Two zippered handwarmer pockets sit above the harness line, and offset shoulder seams steer clear of pack straps.

"This fall, I’ve already had three friends send me an email or text with the same question: “Which is the best fleece jacket?” It can be a difficult question to answer, because there are so many fleece jackets available, and because the best fleece jacket for you will vary widely depending on what you want to do with it..."
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I use this jacket either by itself or under a water-proof shell depending upon the conditions. It seems to be best for active pursuits as it breathes well and is only moderately insulative. It is fitted so it goes best on top of a base layer. It may not work well going over a typical shirt. I am a size 41 chest in most clothes and the medium fits me without any loose material.

I used the Patagonia R1 as part of my layering system on a recent backpacking trip into the Chicago Basin in Colorado. The full-zip jacket made it easy to take on and off and to zip down to cool down. The jacket dried quickly inside my tent and was ready to go again the next morning. I believe Patagonia makes some great gear. I would definitely recommend buying this jacket.